FC Basel: Lichtsteiner Demands Intensity, Daniliuc Reveals Training Changes
FC Basel is undergoing a shift in mentality under head coach Stephan Lichtsteiner, with a renewed focus on intensity and concentration in training. Defender Flavius Daniliuc revealed that players who were previously “taking it easy” have been removed from training, signaling a clear message from the coaching staff.
Daniliuc on the New Standards
Following a 3-1 victory over Servette, Flavius Daniliuc stated, “We don’t have ‘loose’ anymore. There were a few players who took it easy. They were pushed aside and no longer train with us.” Bluewin reports that Daniliuc declined to elaborate on the specifics, but emphasized a firm stance taken by the team council and staff against complacency. “We have already left out too many percentages this season. We can’t do that anymore.”
Lichtsteiner’s Philosophy
Stephan Lichtsteiner has consistently emphasized the importance of perform ethic and concentration. He stated, “Work mentality is non-negotiable for me. You play like you train. During training you have to be on the pitch with full concentration for one and a half or two hours.” Bluewin. Although acknowledging the importance of enjoyment, Lichtsteiner stressed the need for “full concentration” during this critical phase of the season.
The coach clarified that no players have been formally removed from the squad, but Daniliuc’s comments suggest that some players, such as Philip Otele (currently on loan to HSV) and Jeremy Agbonifo (loan ended early with Lens), may have been subject to this new approach.
Degen Backs Lichtsteiner
FC Basel board chairman David Degen has publicly backed Lichtsteiner, offering him a job guarantee for the next season. Bluewin reports Degen praised Lichtsteiner for taking over the team during a challenging period, acknowledging the difficulty of assuming the role before crucial Europa League, League, and Cup matches. “Over 90 percent of the coaches who could have been considered would only have wanted to capture over after these three important games,” Degen stated.
Current Standings (as of November 9, 2025)
As of November 9, 2025, FC Basel is 4th in the Swiss Super League with 46 points. Wikipedia. Here’s a snapshot of the league table:
| Rank | Clubs | Play | Goals Diff | Points | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | FC Thun | 30 | 38 | 71 | 12 |
| 2 | FC St. Gallen | 29 | 23 | 54 | 3 |
| 3 | FC Lugano | 29 | 10 | 49 | 4 |
| 4 | FC Basel | 30 | 6 | 49 | 5 |
| 5 | FC Sion | 30 | 9 | 45 | 6 |
Recent Results
FC Basel recently defeated Servette 3-1 on March 15, 2026. ysscores.com. Xherdan Shaqiri is the top league goalscorer for Basel with 10 goals, and 18 goals overall.
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